YOBS have vandalised a Red Cross ambulance so badly that it has been pulled out of action in the city.

Vandals broke into the charity's Birmingham base in Lowe Street, Camp Hill, wrecking the newest and most used vehicle in the early hours of yesterday morning.

They ripped out the satellite navigation system, immobilised the alarm and trashed the cab section, causing more than #2,500 worth of damage to the ambulance that has helped save lives, including during the Birmingham tornado.

Keith Nevitt, British Red Cross service manager, said luckily the trauma kits, defibrillator and other medical equipment were locked in the back of the ambulance and left untouched.

"We are extremely saddened by this vandalism as we rely on local donations to help us to equip our staff and volunteers to respond in emergencies when and where we're needed most," said Mr Nevitt.

"They damaged our newest ambulance. It is senseless violence that has terrible consequences.

"As a charity it's hard to justify spending our resources on repairing the damage in situations like this.

"This Red Cross ambulance is vital in the city as we have supported the West Midlands ambulance service many times in responding to emergencies."